Pecan Sandie Recipe: A Delightfully Simple Classic
The pecan sandie. Just the name evokes images of buttery, crumbly goodness, delicately studded with crunchy pecans. This classic cookie is surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers a sophisticated flavor and texture that will impress even the most discerning palate. This recipe will guide you through creating these perfect little treats, ensuring a batch that's both delicious and visually appealing. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade pecan sandies!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 24 pecan sandies. Adjust quantities accordingly if you need more (or fewer!) of these delightful cookies.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for achieving that perfect, light and crumbly texture. Don't melt it!
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 2 large eggs: Adds richness and helps the cookies hold their shape.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation of your cookies.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 cup pecan halves: The star of the show! Toasted pecans add a wonderful depth of flavor and satisfying crunch.
Instructions for Pecan Sandie Perfection:
Step 1: Preparing the Pecans (Optional, but Recommended)
For the best flavor, toast your pecans before using them. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely before adding them to the dough.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand if you're feeling ambitious! The key is to incorporate plenty of air for a lighter cookie.
Step 3: Adding the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Adding the Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecan halves. Again, avoid overmixing to prevent the pecans from breaking down too much.
Step 6: Shaping the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Step 7: Baking to Golden Perfection
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary.
Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, enjoy your delicious homemade pecan sandies!
Tips for Pecan Sandie Success:
- Don't overbake! Slightly underbaked cookies will be softer and chewier.
- Chill the dough: For easier handling and a more defined shape, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Get creative with variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor, or use different types of nuts.
This recipe provides a wonderful foundation for you to experiment and create your own signature pecan sandie. Enjoy the baking process and the delicious results!
